Wednesday, 15 August 2012
Revolutionary New Job Seeking Tool and Contest
UPDATE: It's early in the morning and already emails are arriving from people who want to be included in the contest. Please - as noted in the contest section below, you must post your request to join the contest in the comments. Emails will not be honored.
Among the age-related threads I track online is job search advice. For people older than 50, it is universally awful and has not varied for more than a decade: shorten your resume, update your skills, be positive, buy some new clothes, color your hair. Some years ago, one even suggested getting a face lift.
It was useless and condescending ten years ago and in today's terrible job market, it is unforgivable.
But now there is a new approach to job search and I'm not exaggerating in the title up there that it is revolutionary. It is getting people of all ages in the door to real, face-to-face interviews even after hundreds, even thousands of their resumes over many months have sunk into black holes of oblivion with never an acknowledgment let alone a response.
”Rick, hope you are very well,” wrote one job seeker who followed Rick Gillis's plan. “I have to tell you that I have been applying to *** since about March for various positions in project management and business management and on Friday 16th, I submitted my resume to a regional supervisory role using the below resume just as you instructed and I got a call this morning at 11:00 to set up a phone screen interview at 3:00 pm today! This is a success.”
Another real-world example:
”I updated [my] long resume like you said and sent to my contact at ***. And I just got a call. They are interested in me and are setting up an interview for next week. Called me from the golf course. Glad I have my Accomplishment worksheet ready. This is [the] first one I sent out.”
Rick Gillis has helped thousands of job seekers who attend his seminars and listen to his radio programs. Now, in his new book, JOB! Learn How to Find Your Next Job in 1 Day, Rick Gillis makes his easy-to-implement plan available to everyone. [Disclosure: Rick is a friend, I edited this book and will benefit financially from its sales.]
In JOB!, Rick reveals what statement should always be at the top of any resume, why you should not list your street address, how to properly apply keywords to a resume and the number one reason resumes are not read.
Those are essential facts to know, but the meat of the book explains how to create the set of tools job seekers must have to sell themselves. “Job search is sales,” says Rick.
To do that, Rick walks readers through the development of his innovative Accomplishments Worksheet, Short-Form Resume, Long-Form Resume and then details the use of them to get the all-important phone call setting up an interview.
Some people who have attended Rick's seminars dismiss the effort involved to create an Accomplishments Worksheet. But those who follow through on Rick's instructions are amazed at what they learn about themselves and how it helps them find their next job. From the book:
“David came to me and said he had been going crazy trying to come up with even one accomplishment he was proud enough of to list on his Accomplishments Worksheet...
“David is a payroll clerk and as such he just didn't feel he had brought that much value to his company (which in this case was a global energy company). David's problem was that he was only one among the many payroll clerks in the office, just another cog in the machine. Or so he thought.
“After a while, David sheepishly mentioned that he was 'kind of proud of the fact that I had zero returns on my first payroll of 6,000.'
“I nearly fell off my seat! 6,000 paychecks...
"Which payroll clerk would you hire? The guy who could handle the details associated with preparing a payroll of 6,000 checks and make no mistakes the first time out or the guy who can't tell you what he can do for the company?”
As Rick points out in JOB!, his system works whether you are a payroll clerk, a parking lot cashier or a denizen of the C-suite. He has helped people at every level of the workforce.
I know many of you who read Time Goes By are retired. But many others are not and undoubtedly most of you know someone – friends, neighbors, adult children, even grandchildren who badly need to find jobs. Rick's method is revolutionary – no one else is teaching this - and I believe that if I'd used Rick's method after I lost my last job, I would have found something and not have had to retire.
JOB! is available from Amazon in paperback for $9.99 and for Kindle or any other e-reader for 99 cents. There are free readers for computers, smartphones and tablets here. And, you can find more information about the book at Rick's website.
To help get the book off to a great start, Rick has provided three copies of JOB! for me to give away to Time Goes By readers.
To enter the contest, leave a message in the comments section below (no emails). That's it. If you have something to say about job search, your own experience, that of people you know or anything else related, that's good, but not required.
The only requirement is that you state your interest in winning one of the books. Like last time we did this kind of contest, typing "Me, me, me" will do it, too. I'm not fussy.
The contest will close tonight, 15 August 2012, at midnight U.S. Pacific time. The three winners will be chosen in a random, electronic drawing and announced here on this blog on Friday 17 August.
At The Elder Storytelling Place today, Linda Carmi: The Elder Invisible Thing
Posted by Ronni Bennett at 05:30 AM | Permalink | Email this post
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Was downsized on July 31st from a PT position developing educational resources that I held for 12 years--the company bought out by another,and is moving its operations. This book would be a useful tool for finding my next PT job. Thanks for offering information and the chance to win a copy!
Posted by: Gaea Yudron | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 06:09 AM
I'd love to have a copy of this book. Thank you for the opportunity to win a copy.
Posted by: Sally | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 06:57 AM
Would love to have a copy of this book to give to my nephew, who is in law school right now.
Posted by: Cara | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 07:18 AM
me me me indeed - resumes have always been my worst nightmare.
Posted by: Janet Matthews | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 07:39 AM
I'm an over 55 job candidate - Interviewed 4x for prod. mgr position with multi channel retailer -
Over the process was interviewed by 15 employees from VP to receptionist, had to do a trend presentation
(which should hv been a consultancy project)
and all I got was a limp handshake at the end of a 10 hour process and no job - which went to an internal younger candidate.
Posted by: Heather Stewart | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 07:50 AM
I too would love a copy - primarily for use in the Dissertation Seminar I am teaching this fall. I am also planning an alternate employment workshop for our graduate students, who are facing such a grim job market. Thank you for telling us about this, Ronni.
Posted by: Ruth-Ellen B. Joeres | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 07:58 AM
My father lost his job close to three years ago, and I feel he has all but given up on the job search as he is now 66 years old. He loves working in the nonprofit field helping people but no one will hire him. This book would give him a few fresh ideas and maybe restore some hope. I would love to give him a copy.
Posted by: Aliza | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 08:01 AM
Always interested in books on jobs -- if nothing else, this one sounds refreshingly interesting. Count me in!!!
Posted by: Kay Dennison | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 08:01 AM
As a writer for the Medicare program, I am very concerned that I may lose my job if Romney/Ryan get elected. My company is also downsizing since a major merger, so my concerns are two-fold. Would love to win a copy of this book!
Posted by: P Gavan | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 08:08 AM
It makes me laugh how sometimes the smallest things can make a big difference. I'ld love a copy of the book.
Posted by: Denise Minick | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 08:09 AM
for my recently divorced daughter......
Posted by: Diane | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 08:14 AM
I am so discouraged that many employers/head hunters automatically discount job applicants over 50; in some circles even 40 is "too old". I look forward to seeing how maturity and experience can be a resume asset!
Posted by: TLK | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 08:17 AM
I'd be delighted if I won one of the copies!
Posted by: Diane | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 08:18 AM
Please throw my hat into the ring for this book, too. Although I am already retired, I know lots of people who could benefit from new ways to look for work.
Posted by: DJan | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 08:19 AM
Since I hope to keep myself employed until full retirement age (and that's not so far away anymore), it would seem i need to grab onto any supportive resources I can. So consider this my "me me me"!
Thanks.
Posted by: Arnie Sivakoff | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 08:27 AM
This book sounds like it would be really helpful to job seekers. I'll certainly keep the title in mind to pass along to anyone who is looking for employment and would appreciate some guidance.
The best benefit is for TGB readers other than me to receive one of those free copies so I'm not requesting one.
I just wanted to express my support for this book, since I know from loved ones past experiences some of the challenges job seeking can present -- considering age discrimination and additional obstacles that exist today.
Posted by: joared | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 08:31 AM
Thanks for offering this book, timing is perfect as I re-begin the job search.
Please, please, please-me, me, me!
Posted by: Tazz11 | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 08:32 AM
Although I am currently employed I would like to stay that way in the future. Would love a copy for myself!
Posted by: Meghan Chiumento | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 08:34 AM
What a great offer ! My son is without work again. His online attempts have netted him nothing and he feels that avenue is hopeless. Maybe the book could help him.
Posted by: Pat | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 08:54 AM
My son needs a job.
Posted by: Janet Pfaff | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 08:58 AM
I have no desire to go back to work - I'm finally living my dream, but maybe one of the free copies needs to be offered to a local agency trying to help older displaced workers? Or library? Thank you Ronni, for posting this info. It should help spread the word.
Posted by: Lauren Nelson | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 09:02 AM
I thought that Linked in would give me the answer. But it's no magic bullet either. Would love to try out this new approach.
Posted by: Tom Sightings | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 09:22 AM
I will be retiring soon and afterwards would like to find a job I'm more suited for.
Posted by: Martha Kellenberger | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 09:29 AM
Put me on your list, Ronni.
I know two people who have been looking for a job for over a year.
Thanks.
Posted by: doctafill | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 09:51 AM
A copy of this book would be very useful to me as a 65 y/o job seeker who often re-writes my resume, and is unwilling to get a face-lift.
Posted by: Deborah | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 09:51 AM
I am currently working, but at my age I don't know if or when I might be looking for my next job. So, I'd really like this book.
Posted by: James LaMee | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 09:59 AM
Would love to win a copy of this book....always looking for part-time work. Thanks.
Posted by: Wendl Kornfeld | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 10:07 AM
Would love to have a copy to give away!
Posted by: Leela | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 10:09 AM
Yes, include me in your list of the chance of getting what looks like a very good read for all ages.
Posted by: Johna Ferguson | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 10:10 AM
Life is not always fair. Count me in.
Posted by: Paula | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 10:18 AM
In a small community college, you don't know what assignment you'll be handed next (to add to your already full load). Thus I ran the Career Center for a few years. Enjoyed it tho we had close to 20% unemployment in this rural county even ten years ago. The other day an old student asked me for detailed career advice in the pool! So I'd make good use of this interesting book, too. Thanks!
Posted by: Kathi W | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 10:25 AM
I would love to have a copy of this book to give to my daughter who, at the age of 51 is struggling in a low paying job for which she is overqualified.
Posted by: Darlene | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 10:46 AM
I would very much like to read this book and then, pass it on to someone younger.
Posted by: Marcy B. | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 11:28 AM
I would be delighted to win a copy of "Jobs!" I have two kids, both of whom have okay jobs, but who could both benefit from reading this book and looking for the "right" job. Thank you for this opportunity.
Posted by: Classof65 | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 01:20 PM
Ditto to Darlene, only mine is a year younger. I wonder how she'll find the time to read it. She's overworked, under paid and over qualified. But she has a job, which is something.
Posted by: Tarzana | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 01:31 PM
MY recent college grad has been unsuccessful in finding a "real"" job even though she has had many interviews. I'd love this for her. Thanks!
Posted by: Diane | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 02:12 PM
me me
Posted by: kate murphy | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 02:15 PM
Count me in. Am currently underemployed and over 50. Need all the help I can get if I ever hope to retire.
Posted by: Christina | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 03:11 PM
Pick me! :) At 66 I just left a job and relocated to be near family and must find another job. I'm struggling to put together an effective resume....would love this book! Thanks for telling us about it and for a chance to win a copy.
Posted by: annie | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 03:52 PM
I've been doing contract work for a while and even that took me 4 months to find inbetween jobs a year ago. I'm on the lookout for an ongoing job and while I've had a couple of interviews, other times I've been overlooked when I didn't expect to be. So I think anything that helps me with that can't hurt. Heck, if I don't win, I'll be the e-book version once I get an e-reader.
Posted by: Jen | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 04:58 PM
My daughter and son-in-law could use this book.
Posted by: Julie M | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 05:24 PM
I have several family members looking for jobs so this book would be a blessing.
Posted by: Maida | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 06:06 PM
Do re, me, me, me!
62 and been jobless for several years, could use any help I can get. Thank you!
Posted by: Christine | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 06:43 PM
I want a crack at it as well.
Posted by: ainslie dewar | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 06:48 PM
My son-in-law has been out of work since Dec. I would love to win a copy to give to him.
Posted by: Lyn | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 07:06 PM
I'm working at 64. No end in sight. However, 3 jobs over past 33 years--2 in last 3.5 years; At this rate, the odds are high that I can use this book again, probably soon, at least one more time before I'm done. Me, me, me, me, me, me.......
Posted by: John | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 08:14 PM
This book would be great to have, just in case. I took an early retirement offer 7 years ago and enjoy not working. But with today's economy and the attacks on Social Security and Medicare, there's no guarantee that I won't need to go back to work at some point.
Posted by: SusanB | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 08:15 PM
This book could provide the basis for a great workshop on job-hunting at the local adult school where I teach a couple of classes. Thanks!
Posted by: Cynthia Friedlob | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 08:30 PM
Please throw my name in there Ronni, I may have to look for a part-timer as a secondary income source has fallen through for this year.
Thanks a bunch!
XO
WWW
Posted by: wisewebwoman | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 08:32 PM
I would love a copy for my son.
Posted by: anniehall | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 09:29 PM
I'm hoping that despite the time difference, I'm still in time to have my name included in the draw. I could have the book sent to a US address if necessary. Your post made me so hopeful that even if I don't win, I'll get myself a copy of the book some other way. Thank you, Ronni, for this and for so much else.
Posted by: laura | Wednesday, 15 August 2012 at 11:21 PM
Oh, Ronni.... Please, please tell me this is a spoof.
Posted by: Liz | Thursday, 16 August 2012 at 12:57 AM
Hi Ronni - please please please enter me in the contest!
Posted by: Bozoette Mary | Thursday, 16 August 2012 at 03:56 AM
I am jobless but can certainly afford to spend 99 cents to get an e-copy, so please don't enter me in your contest but count me in as glad to get the info from you!
Posted by: Lee | Thursday, 16 August 2012 at 10:39 AM
I like the sound of this approach, although I'm not looking for a job. I've bought the Kindle version though, because it sounds as if it might be adaptable to other contexts - in my case selling art.
Posted by: Ian | Friday, 17 August 2012 at 07:32 AM
Whether it takes a day or longer, it is crucial to figure out what your value is to yourself and to the work you want to do.
I am unsure if 1 day is enough - I will read the book and then leave a comment.
Posted by: Chris Kulbaba | Monday, 10 September 2012 at 09:41 PM